Democratic Republic of Congo
Lele

Snake/Reptile skin, wood, metal tacks, cowrie shells, fabric
Mid 20th century
Length: 23 inches
Membranophone – Struck (Directly) – Single Headed

This drum bears two large mask-like faces in high relief on both sides of the upper portion. The mask faces clearly resemble the masks of the Lele people, with a flattened shape nose and slit eyes.  The most important forms of Lele art are carved drums and divination instruments.  This goblet-shaped drum is handcarved from one piece of wood with a snake/reptile skin drum head.   Facial scarification marks with brass tacks  with cowrie shells attached to a cloth above the incised geometric carving just below the drum head adds to the presence of this ritual drum.